Ear Surgery (Otoplasty) in Canada

Otoplasty (surgery of the ear) is usually done to set prominent ears closer to the head. Prominent ears usually are a genetically inherited problem with the ears protruding too far from the head. Otoplasty ear surgery is commonly performed on children as well as adults.

There are generally 2 different anatomic problems that cause this to occur. The first is extra excessive ear cartilage pushing the ear forward and out and the second is usually the lack of a normal ear cartilage fold that normally holds the ear back. Patients may have one or both combinations of problems. Both must be corrected surgically unless the patient is less than a few days old when it can still be corrected by molding and splinting.

During otoplasty ‘ear pinning’ surgery an incision is made behind the ear in the crease where the ear meets the head. From this incision the extra cartilage can be removed and the missing fold in the cartilage be recreated if needed. The patient is then sutured closed and dressed with a head dressing that must stay on for 1 week. The dressing can then be removed and the new ears examined. Care must be taken not to actively pull the ear back out and recreate the corrected problem.

Otoplasty ‘ear pinning’ surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis.You will feel discomfort, but any pain can be controlled with medication. You can expect your ears to be swollen and ache and this can last for a few weeks. Stitches may come out in 5-7 days.

Your surgeon will give you specific recovery instructions but usually you will be asked to rest for the first week. You will probably be instructed not to participate in strenuous activities for 2 – 4 weeks.

In general the goal of an otoplasty ‘ear pinning’ surgery is to create ears that are in balance with the rest of the face. It’s effects are often permanent.